A case of pancreatitis, panniculitis and polyarthritis syndrome: Elucidating the pathophysiologic mechanisms of a rare condition

•Pancreatitis induced panniculitis derive from lipolysis in peripheral tissues.•Local activated tissue adipocytes may contribute to peripheral tissue inflammation.•Knowledge of PPP syndrome is essential to avoid unnecessary investigations and treatments.•Management of PPP syndrome should be directed toward resolution of the underlying pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis-Panniculitis-Polyarthritis (PPP) syndrome is rare and its physiopathology unclear. A 6-year old boy suffered of traumatic pancreatitis complicated by PPP syndrome. Extensive investigations demonstrated high levels of pancreatic lipase and fatty acids in the affected peripheral tissues. These findings support the sequence of peripheral lipolysis and fatty acid accumulation inducing tissue inflammation.